Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly, not necessarily 50/50, under Va. Code § 20-107.3. This statute, personally amended by Mr. Sris, lists 11 factors the court must consider. Divorce requires a 6-month separation with no minor children and a signed agreement, or a 1-year separation otherwise. Fault grounds like adultery have no waiting period.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly Code
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s family law statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code Title 20, Chapter 6.1). The Virginia Beach General District Court website provides local forms, filing information, and contact details.
Virginia Beach Family Court Process
Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support. The Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles standalone custody, child support, and protective orders. Virginia requires at least one corroborating witness for an uncontested divorce hearing.
- Consult with an attorney to understand your rights under Virginia law.
- File the appropriate complaint (divorce, custody, etc.) at the correct Virginia Beach court.
- Exchange financial disclosures and participate in discovery if the case is contested.
- Attend mediation or settlement conferences to attempt resolution.
- Proceed to a pendente lite hearing for temporary orders if needed.
- Present your case at a final hearing or trial if settlement is not reached.
Penalties and Legal Standards in Virginia Beach
In Virginia Beach, divorce and family law matters follow equitable distribution principles, with child support calculated using state guidelines based on combined gross income.
| Offense/Matter | Classification | Potential Outcome | Financial Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce (Uncontested) | Civil Proceeding | Final Decree | Filing fee ~$86 + service costs | Division of assets/debts |
| Divorce (Contested) | Civil Proceeding | Court-ordered resolution | Filing fee ~$86 + attorney fees + experienced costs | Court decides property, support, custody |
| Child Support | Court Order | Monthly payment obligation | Based on VA guidelines & income | Enforcement via wage garnishment, license suspension |
| Spousal Support | Court Order | Monthly payment for defined period | Based on 13 statutory factors | Modifiable based on changed circumstances |
Results may vary. The outcomes described are based on Virginia law and typical procedures; individual case results depend on specific facts.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3. Our tagline is “Global advocacy. Local precision.”
Samantha Rae Powers, Associate Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA, FL. Experienced family law and civil litigator. View Samantha Rae Powers’s Profile
Case Results in Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for family law matters handled.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Virginia Beach courts, accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44. We are a family law lawyer near Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
An uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement takes 2-4 months from filing. A contested divorce typically takes 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation can take 12-24 months. Pendente lite hearings for temporary orders are usually set within 21-60 days.
How much does a divorce cost in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
The Circuit Court filing fee is approximately $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), pendente lite motion fees, Guardian ad Litem for custody ($500-$2,500+), and mediation ($100-$300 per hour per party). Attorney fees vary by case complexity.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly based on 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3, not necessarily 50/50. Separate property, like pre-marriage assets or inheritances, is excluded from division.
How is child custody decided in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Custody is based on the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3. The court considers 10 factors, including each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse. Virginia Beach J&DR Court handles standalone custody cases.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month separation (no minor children and a signed agreement) or a 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion for one year, or a felony conviction with imprisonment for one year or more.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need other legal help in Virginia Beach, consider our Virginia Beach criminal defense lawyer or Virginia Beach DUI lawyer. Learn more about Mr. Sris or visit our Richmond office location page.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.